A Lifeline Has Been Cut — But You Can Help Rebuild It

For 17 years, a group of incredibly skilled Guatemalan artisans have created beautiful, handmade textiles and accessories — from naturally dyed wool textiles to vibrant woven & beaded goods — all rooted in Mayan tradition. Their work has supported entire families and communities, offering dignity, fair wages, and the chance to preserve ancestral craft. 112 people are employed by this business and it directly supports 60 families.

Until now, Etsy has been their main bridge to the world. With 7 years on Etsy, thousands of sales, hundreds of returning customers and amazing reviews- this is their main source of income. But with recent changes to Etsy’s payment platform and policies, that bridge has collapsed.

⁉️What Happened?

Etsy has introduced a new payment system that is not supported in Guatemala and many other countries leading to hundreds of Etsy stores being shut down without warning. This change has cut off these artisans’ largest source of income overnight — with no warning and no support. The response from Etsy? Sorry, nothing we can do.

These are not mass-produced goods. Every item is handmade. Every sale funds school fees, medical costs, and daily essentials for families who rely on this income.

Why We’re Asking for Help

We are raising funds to:

• Legally establish a U.S.-based business entity (LLC) and all required Tax ID numbers

• Open a U.S. bank account to receive sales revenue without delay or restrictions

• Sustain production so artisans can keep working while they restructure their business

• Develop alternative sales channels like Amazon and Shopify so this never happens again

Our $5,000 goal will directly support the artisans’ transition to a sustainable, independent sales model — without middlemen or broken systems.

❤️ How You Can Make a Difference

Your donation — no matter how small — helps bridge the gap between a sudden loss of income and a new path forward.

You’re not just funding a business.

You’re helping preserve culture, craft, and livelihoods.

Please share this campaign, and if you’re able, donate today.

With deep gratitude,

The Mayan Fair Trade Team

Handmade. Ethical. Enduring.